Waterline CEO Mike Lawrence on why Crown's purchase of Allied is good news for everyone...

Following your story on Crown's involvement at Waterline, we feel it is hugely positive for both the future of our company and, more importantly, the prosperity of our customers.

There is no doubt that the recession has exacerbated the squeeze on both manufacturer and distributor margins. Some manufacturers have gone down the direct route due to these pressures, while most of our suppliers have remained loyal to the distributor route, relying on our flexibility, speed and our wide kitchen specialist base. 

This, coupled with dramatic increases in costs such as fuel, has perpetuated unusual alliances which have resulted in creativity and more importantly, a greater choice in both products and services for customers. Some of your readers will no doubt know about our short-lived dalliance with the stock market between 2005 and 2008. 

This had no positive effect on either our company or our customers, while Crown's involvement has had a huge benefit in terms of investment and development of our organisation. Our infrastructure will be bolstered next month by the introduction of a new Distribution Centre in Guildford and in 2009 we introduced 'Installation Ready' Crown kitchens where we deliver directly to site. 

So we are doing our bit to reduce customers' costs while widening the available choice.This union isn't just about money. It is about intelligent solutions for both us and our customers. We all need to help each other tackle the 2010 issues with new ideas, and positive remedies. This industry is slowly coming out of stormy waters, and needs to recalibrate and revitalise itself. I am enjoying the new challenge and focussing on Waterline remaining the UK's favourite distributor.

Michael Lawrence, CEO, Waterline Group